Chapter 8--"wiki, wiki"

Hawaiian's have the right idea: "wiki, wiki" means, quick and fast. (If only it were that easy to actually get to Hawaii.) That is certainly what the wiki technology is all about--quick and fast access to information. Most people automatically think of wikipedia when considering wiki's. However, there are wikis for almost anything. The advantages of wikis are obvious: quick access to information that anyone can contribute to. Anyone can add content and contribute their ideas to a particular wiki of interest. The disadvantages are almost the same. Because anyone can contribute, it is easy to be misled by information.

If used correctly, libraries could use wikis in a number of ways. The library community can contribute to topics of all genres. For example, in a high school library, the wiki could be a useful tool for research. The librarians could update articles of interest based on subject matter and include books that pertain to the subject being researched. As a 9th grade English teacher, freshmen tend to be quite overwhelmed when they receive their first research opportunity. This tool would be ideal for them. On the same note, the librarian could recommend books for independent reading for the teenager. The students could also update the wiki adding information that was useful for the. Because a wiki is interactive, the librarian would have the ultimate say in what is posted. They have the ability to track what's been changed. A high school library wiki allows the student to become a part of the library community in a way they weren't able to before. I found a useful wiki here. Enjoy!